The Code for Construction Product Information (CCPI), Code guidance and a ‘Preparing for the Code’ information pack have been launched today to drive higher standards in the presentation of construction product information in the manufacturing industry.
The Code has been developed as a direct response to Dame Judith Hackitt’s independent review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety in the wake of the Grenfell Tower disaster.
The Code offers manufacturers the opportunity to demonstrate a progressive approach through their willingness to provide assurance for their product information, and recognition for their efforts to prioritise product safety. It aims to ensure that disingenuous marketing practices and the provision of misleading product information becomes a thing of the past, so that those using products in the construction and maintenance of buildings – including specifiers, architects, consultants and contractors, as well as the ultimate end users of the building – can trust the information provided by manufacturers when making design decisions, installing and using and maintaining verified products.
The Code was developed by the Construction Products Association’s Marketing Integrity Group following industry-wide consultation. The GAI’s Graham Shirville was part of the MIG.
The Code has been built on the principle that product information must be clear, accurate, up-to-date, accessible and unambiguous. It has eleven clauses covering critical aspects from responsibility for product information to transparency of information regarding performance, proof of stated claims and general information and competency. An independent validation process is being put in place to underpin the Code that will rebuild trust in the provision and management of product information by all stakeholders, setting the market for UK construction products ahead of others.
Alongside Code guidance, a ‘Preparing for the Code’ information pack has been published today to help manufacturers gain an understanding of the Code and prepare for the verification journey.
Registration for verification will open towards the end of 2021, supported by detailed guidance. Organisations can register their interest now to receive updates ahead of the launch of verification.
Management of the published Code and its verification has been formally handed over from the Construction Products Association to Construction Product Information Ltd (CPI Ltd) – a newly established not-for-profit organisation with independent governance and management being set-up to administer the CCPI.
Adam Turk, chair, Construction Products Association’s (CPA) Marketing Integrity Group said: “Therehas been overwhelming support for the principle of the Code itself as we endeavour to re-instil confidence in construction products generally. It is now time for our Industry to demonstrate its integrity by getting behind the Code, and putting building safety first. The faster that all Manufacturers register their interest and begin the journey, the sooner that users of our information will be able to rely on it to be Clear, Accurate, Up-to-date, Accessible and Unambiguous.”
Amanda Long, chief executive of Construction Product Information Ltd, said: “The Code should be a priority for all involved with construction product manufacturing. By focusing on culture, leadership and ethics the Code for Construction Product Information will build trust and is a progressive step towards ensuring that building safety is a priority for those responsible for the provision of construction product information.”
Enabling responsible manufacturers to assure their product information and be recognised for their efforts, the Code will support urgent and positive culture and behaviour change in the industry ahead of regulation.”
